Earn points as you spend and redeem them for travel, gift cards, shopping and more with a rewards credit card.
Use this guide to compare reward credit card offers and features. You can also look at the different reward programs available and learn about the different factors to consider so you can find a credit card that works for you.
Exclusive to finder.com.au - Westpac Credit Card Offer
American Express Westpac Altitude Platinum Bundle - Exclusive Offer
Receive up to 90,000 bonus points
$0 annual fee in the first year
Offer ends 31 July 2018
Eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply
Exclusive to finder.com.au - Westpac Credit Card Offer
Exclusive to finder, receive up to 90,000 bonus Altitude Points (75,000 on Visa and 15,000 on Amex) when you meet the spend criteria and save with a $0 annual fee in the first year.
- $0 p.a. annual fee for the first year ($199 p.a. thereafter).
- 20.24% p.a. on purchases
- Cash advance rate of 20.74% p.a.
- Up to 45 days interest free
- Minimum income requirement of $50,000 p.a.
Compare the best rewards credit cards* 2018
The best* reward credit cards – trending now
Compare the features, bonus points and earn rates of the rewards cards below:
- American Express Explorer Credit Card. Offers a bonus 50,000 points when you meet the spend requirements and earns up to 2 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
- ANZ Rewards Platinum Credit Card. Enjoy an introductory 65,000 bonus points when you meet the spend requirement and up to 1.5 points per $1 spent.
- Citi Rewards Signature Credit Card. Get a bonus 120,000 points when you meet the requirements. You'll also earn between 1 and 2 points per $1 spent.
- HSBC Platinum Qantas Credit Card. Get an introductory 60,000 Qantas Points when you apply for this card by 30 September 2018 and meet the spending requirement. Also collect up to 1 point per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
How do rewards credit cards work?
These credit cards give you a way to get some extra value from your everyday spending by allowing you to earn points per $1 spent on the card. Usually, these credit cards give you membership to a particular rewards program, which could be linked to your credit card company (e.g. ANZ Rewards and CommBank Awards), a frequent flyer program (e.g. Qantas or Velocity Frequent Flyer) or a retail rewards programs (e.g. flybuys or David Jones). When you have enough points, you can redeem them for travel, flight upgrades, gift cards, cashback and merchandise.
While rewards credit cards can help you get something extra for your spending, these cards typically have higher standard interest rates and annual fees than other options. So there is a chance these costs could outweigh the value of the rewards.
Example: How to compare the costs and potential value of a rewards card
To help you decide if a rewards card is worth it, consider the annual fee, the amount of points you'll usually earn (based on your average spending) and what rewards that could get you.
For example, if a reward credit card had a $199 annual fee but you knew you could get more than $200 value from the points you'd earn, then it would be worth it. But if you could only get $100 value from rewards, you'd end up paying more for the cards that what you got from the rewards (and that's before you factor in any interest charges).
What is an eligible transaction on a rewards credit card?
Each rewards program and credit card company has a different definition of which transactions earn points. Generally, most of your everyday purchases will earn points – including spending at retail stores, supermarkets and petrol stations. Transactions that usually don't earn points are government charges (including ATO payments), BPAY transactions, cash advances, balance transfers, account fees and account charges. Check the rewards program's terms and conditions for a full list of eligible and ineligible transactions so you know when you will earn rewards.
What rewards can I get with credit card points?
The rewards you can get with a credit card depend on the card you choose and the rewards program. Some of the most popular reward categories include:
- Flights and flight upgrades
- Frequent flyer points
- Accommodation
- Gift cards
- Cashback
- Fuel vouchers
- Instant shopping discounts
- Fashion items
- Electronics
- Tickets for theme parks or movies
How can I use credit card reward points?
The steps you need to take to redeem your points will vary between credit cards and reward programs, but you can usually expect to have to do the following:
- Log in to your account. If you're redeeming points online, you'll need to log in to your credit card or rewards program account to make redemptions. Once you have logged in, it’s usually a simple process of going to the “Rewards” section, then selecting “Use points” and following the prompts.
- Make sure you have enough points for your reward. You need a certain number of points to redeem each reward (e.g. 12,000 points for a $50 gift card). If you don't have enough points, you may have to wait until you earn more points, or consider other options.
- Check if points plus pay is offered. Many credit card and frequent flyer reward programs allow you to use a combination of points and money to redeem rewards. This option is usually available for a selection of rewards, such as travel or merchandise, and gives you more flexibility if you haven’t earned enough points for your chosen reward.
- Confirm your chosen reward. Once you've found the reward you want, click through to the redemption process and follow the prompts to complete your redemption.
Types of credit card rewards programs in Australia
There are four main reward categories: Frequent flyer programs, credit cad reward programs, retail reward programs and cashback cards. You'll find more details on each of these options below.
Frequent flyer programs
If you have a card linked to a frequent flyer program, you can earn points and redeem rewards with a particular airline (such as Qantas or Virgin Australia). There are two main ways to earn frequent flyer points with a rewards credit card in Australia:
- Direct earn frequent flyer credit cards. These cards are linked with a specific frequent flyer program and rewards are added directly to your airline loyalty account. The frequent flyer programs that are linked to direct earn credit cards in Australia include Qantas Frequent Flyer, Velocity Frequent Flyer and Emirates Skywards.
- Indirect earn frequent flyer credit cards. These rewards credit cards let you transfer the points you earn to many different frequent flyer programs from all around the world, giving you more flexibility if you fly with a range of airlines. Credit card rewards programs that indirectly earn frequent flyer points include American Express Membership Rewards, ANZ Rewards, CommBank Awards and NAB Rewards. However, you should note that these cards usually have less competitive earn rates after you exchange your reward points to frequent flyer points.
Credit card rewards programs
Many credit card companies in Australia have their own branded rewards programs. If you get a credit card linked to one of these rewards programs, you can usually redeem points for a variety of rewards including frequent flyer points, travel, merchandise, gift cards and credit on your account. The credit card rewards programs available in Australia include:
Automatic and instant reward options on credit cards
Many credit card reward programs give you the option of setting up automatic redemptions for specific rewards, such as cashback, gift cards or frequent flyer points. For example, ANZ Rewards offers an auto-redemption option for Velocity Frequent Flyer points. With this option, all your ANZ Rewards points are automatically transferred to your Velocity account annually, periodically or when you have earned a specific amount of ANZ Rewards points.
Other credit card companies offer instant redemptions with certain retailers. For example, if you have a CommBank Awards credit card you can redeem your points in-store at Myer or Flight Centre.
Retail rewards credit cards
These rewards credit cards offer you points and other perks when you shop with a particular supermarket or major retailer, such as Coles, Woolworths or David Jones. You can compare some of the most popular options in the table below.
| Retailer | Credit cards | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| David Jones | David Jones Store card | Exclusively for use in David Jones department stores, you can choose between earning points for gift cards or Qantas Points. Receive exclusive in-store benefits such as complimentary standard delivery, gift-wrapping and VIP invitations. |
| David Jones American Express | Let's you earn Membership Rewards or Qantas Points for purchases in David Jones and everywhere else. You can also enjoy exclusive in-store benefits at David Jones. | |
| David Jones American Express Platinum Card | Offers Membership Rewards or Qantas Points for purchases in David Jones and everywhere else. Also gives you access to exclusive in-store benefits at David Jones, plus complimentary travel insurance and airport lounge access. | |
| Coles | Coles No Annual Fee Mastercard | Earns flybuys points per $1 spent. Other benefits include free Coles Online delivery when you spend $100 or more with an eligible Coles Mastercard. |
| Coles Platinum No Annual Fee Mastercard | Gives you a way to earn flybuys points per $1 spent with your credit card. Also offers free Coles Online delivery when you spend $100 or more with an eligible Coles Mastercard. | |
| Coles Rewards Mastercard | Earns flybuys points per $1 spent. You can also enjoy free Coles Online delivery when you spend $100 or more with an eligible Coles Mastercard. | |
| Coles Platinum Rewards Mastercard | Offers you flybuys points per $1 spent, as well as free Coles Online delivery when you spend $100 or more with an eligible Coles Mastercard. | |
| Woolworths | Woolworths Everyday Platinum Credit Card | Earns Woolworths points per $1 spent on eligible purchases, with automatic redemption of points for Woolworths Gift Cards every four months. |
Cashback credit cards
These types of reward credit cards add credit or “cash” to your account when you meet certain spending requirements. Most cashback credit cards offer a percentage of your total spend as cashback or provide a one-time account credit as an introductory offer when you apply and are approved for a specific credit card. Currently, the bcu Rewards credit card is one of the only options to earn cashback for your eligible spending on an ongoing basis.
Cashback options with other rewards credit cards
You can also get cashback through most of the frequent flyer, credit card and supermarket or retail rewards programs outlined above. Just choose the “cash” or “gift cards” category of your rewards program to see what options are available.
What's the best rewards credit card in Australia?
This depends on your individual circumstances and goals. With such a wide range of options available, there is no single "best" credit card for earning rewards. But you can find a card that works for you by comparing cards based on factors including the rewards earn rate, bonus points and other extras, as well as the annual fee and interest rates. If you weigh these details up against your current spending habits, you'll be able to see if the rewards you earn will be worth the costs so that you can decide if the card is right for you.
How to compare rewards credit cards in Australia
To find a credit card that suits your spending habits and goals, you'll need to compare a range of different options before you apply. This helps you find the right mix of benefits and costs for you. Here, you'll find details of the key details to consider when you're comparing rewards credit cards:
How can I earn points?
- Points per dollar. The more points you earn per dollar spent, the greater the potential value. A good rule of thumb is to look for a card that offers at least 1 point per $1 spent for most transactions.
- Point expiry and caps. Some credit card reward points expire after a certain amount of time, and some accounts have a limit on how many points you can earn in a month or year.
- Bonus point offers. Rewards credit cards often have sign-up deals that give you hundreds or thousands of bonus points. Usually, these offers require you to spend a certain amount of money on the card in the first few months you have it. As these offers only last for a limited time, you should only consider them after you have a clear idea of the type of card you want so that you can get the most value out of the deal and the rewards card you choose.
What rewards are available?
- Point values. To work out the value of your rewards, consider how many points you would need to redeem for a specific reward. For example, if you need 12,000 points to get a $50 gift card and your credit card has an earn rate of 1 point per $1 spent, you would have to spend $12,000 to make a redemption. Breaking down the rewards like this can help you determine whether it’s worth your time and money.
- Rewards partners. Rewards programs often partner with retailers and businesses to provide you with a wider range of redemption options. You may also have the opportunity to earn bonus points when you shop with partner stores. Choose a credit card rewards program that has partnerships with your favourite brands and products so you can take advantage of these options.
- Redemption limitations. Some rewards programs have blackout periods when you may not be able to make redemptions. Check the fine print for this information and consider the impact it could have on you.
What are the rates and fees?
- Annual fees. Most rewards credit cards charge an annual fee. The value of the rewards you earn should be equal to or more than the annual fee of the credit card to make it worthwhile. You could also compare rewards credit cards that offer no annual fee – just remember to check if the annual fee is waived in the first year or $0 for life.
- Foreign transaction fees. Most credit cards apply a charge for transactions made overseas or with an international retailer online, usually 2% to 3.5% of the total transaction. Make sure you consider this fee before choosing a card – especially for any rewards card that offers more points for foreign transactions. You can compare cards with no foreign transaction fees with this guide.
- Purchase rates. Rewards credit cards often have high standard interest rates. If you think you’ll carry a balance, consider how much interest your purchases will accrue and whether the rewards will outweigh the cost of your repayments.
- Balance transfer rates. Some balance transfer credit cards also come with rewards. These cards allow you to move an existing debt to the new card and pay a low introductory interest rate on the balance. But you won't earn points for the balance that you transfer and any new purchases will attract the card's purchase interest rate. If you have credit card debt, it may be better to focus on paying it off completely before considering a rewards card.
- Cash advance rates. If you use a rewards credit card for a cash advance transaction, such as getting money from an ATM, you will be charged interest at the cash advance rate. This rate could be as high as 22% p.a. Cash advances usually don't earn reward points either.
- Other fees. Check for other costs, such as late payment fees or additional cardholder fees, so that you can choose a card that is affordable for you.
Are there any complimentary extras?
Rewards credit cards often come with a variety of additional features that can add value to the account you choose. Popular perks include the following:
- International travel insurance
- Airport lounge access
- Complimentary flights
- Hotel stays
- Purchase protection insurance
- Extended warranty coverage
- Price match guarantees
- Concierge services
Is a rewards credit card worth it?
The value of a rewards credit card depends on your spending habits as much as it does on the actual card you choose. So rather than making a definitive statement about whether a rewards credit card will be worth it, let’s take a look at the key factors that make them likely or unlikely to work for you.
A rewards credit card could be worth it if you:
- Pay off your credit card balance in full every month
- Currently use or plan to use a credit card on a regular basis
- Know what type of points you want to earn
- Are part of or want to join an existing rewards program that is linked to reward credit cards (such as a frequent flyer program or shopping rewards program)
- Earn enough to pay a higher annual fee
- Can regularly make use of the rewards or complimentary extras on the card, such as insurance and lounge passes
A rewards credit card might not be right if you:
- Have a lot of credit card debt
- Often carry a balance on your credit card
- Rarely use a credit card
- Won’t regularly use complimentary extras on the card
- Can’t afford a higher annual fee
- Are tempted to spend more so you can earn rewards
While rewards credit cards can be a useful way to get something back on your spending, it’s important to remember that you have to repay everything (plus interest). There are also annual fees and other costs to consider.
So if you want a rewards card, start by comparing a range of credit cards based on the rewards program, costs and your spending habits. You can then read reviews of individual cards, check your eligibility and apply for a card that suits your needs.
Frequently asked questions about rewards credit cards
Want to know more about rewards credit cards? You can find answers to the most common questions we get about them below. You can also leave your own question by filling out the form below.
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Looking for the best reward credit card .. Currently westpac altitude card 1.25 for every dollar we used to have the extra american express card which would be 2 or 3 points per dollar that now longer exists with westpac and has to be brought from american express for so for the reward points in flights
$100.00 per 33025 points in flights
and cash conversion
100 for 23950 points currently has a 15% discount on the points otherwise its more points per 100
What would you suggest is the best credit card as we either go back to the american express and keep adding or start a fresh
Hi Kathryn,
Thanks for your inquiry
It looks like you’re already on the right page for comparing all rewards credit cards featured on our site. However, we are not permitted to recommend a specific card for you and we can only provide general information. It would be best to compare the options listed above to your existing AMEX card to help you decide.
Hope this information helps
Cheers,
Arnold
we require a company credit card
only have about 5 transactions per month total spend about $400
pay off debt each month
currently have a diners card and finding it is not acceptable to all.
also bank with Bankwest.
what card do suggest
Thanks for getting in touch with finder, a leading comparison website and general information service.
You can compare your options for business credit cards on this page. Click the green “Go to site” button to be redirected to their main page for online application.
Since you’ve mentioned you currently have an account with bankwest, if you are interested to get a credit card from the same bank, you may compare here.
Hope this helps!
Can I use diners club rewards with Emirates?
Hi Ron,
Thanks for your inquiry. Please note that we are not affiliated with Diners Club or any company we feature on our site and so we can only offer you general advice.
Yes, the Diners Club Rewards program also allows you to transfer your reward points to 17 airline and travel loyalty programs, including Virgin Australia’s Velocity frequent flyer program, Emirates Skywards, Etihad Guest and Hilton Honors.
You can know more about Diners Club Rewards program on this page.
Best regards,
Rench
I spend and pay off in full about 25K per month of normal spending on my Citi Signature card which since the 1st July 2017 have at best halved their reward points which I use for Qantas flights.
What is the best card now for me to get the most points for my spend per month, ie who is dollar for dollar and uncapped
Hi Kym,
Thank you for your inquiry.
While we cannot recommend what is best for you, we can offer you a general information. You can use this quick video tutorial guide to review and compare the offers that will best fit your personal requirements.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold
Since the rules for the credit card reward points that you earn are changing as of the 1st July 2017, what would be the best rewards card that you can earn points for make payments to the ATO? Currently have a Westpac Altitude Rewards card and this is changing from 1st of July 2017 where you no longer receive points for ATO payments.
Hi Maz,
Thanks for your comment.
Please click this page to find out which credit cards let you earn points when making payments to the ATO. Compare the credit cards that earn points for tax payments and after you’re done comparing, click the “Go to Site” button to be redirected to the banks website to apply.
Regards,
Jhezelyn
I was hoping you could crunch the numbers and let me know the best value reward credit card available.
I currently have a Jetstar Platinum MasterCard
Spending approx $60k pa
I receive 2 points per dollar (2%) return
1 point = $1 when redeemed so about $1200 only catch is have to use as Jetstar flights.
Annual fee is $49 + additional card $39 so $88 annual fee
Can you suggest a card to offer me better value or the same that has more flexible rewards.
Many thanks
Alan
Hi Alan,
Thank you for your inquiry.
For your additional options to compare you may want to consider this options.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold
Need a replacement card as mine is almost beyond being usable
Hi Brian,
Thanks for your comment.
May I know what type of card you are currently holding so I can assist you?
Alternatively, you can also try logging into your account on your bank’s website and check if there is a feature for requesting replacement cards.
Cheers,
Anndy
I wish to be sent a new rewards card as mine is the old style & I was informed that the old style card will become extinct shortly.
I will send my address when I hear from you.
Hi Dawn,
Thanks for your comment.
You have come through to finder.com.au we are an Australian financial comparison website and general information service and is not a credit card company.
I’m afraid you’ll need to contact your card issuer directly to request for a replacement of your old rewards card.
I apologise I couldn’t be of more help.
Regards,
May
How do i access my savings
Hi Ejay,
Thanks for your question.
To allow us to assist you further could you please state which credit card you are using?
Cheers,
Ysa
Hi,
Which provider is the most beneficial for us clients ?
We accumulate a lot of points however with the current provider we need to redeem a lot of points (which I believe is extremely excessive)in order to receive.
Example 500,000 points gets you 2 return tickets to Europe
Hi Steve,
Thanks for your inquiry.
Kindly note that finder.com.au is an online comparison service and is not in a position to recommend specific products, issuers, and services.
Also, it highly depends on your personal situation and needs. It would still be best to compare the different options available to ensure that you choose the most ideal product for you.
That said, you may want to take a look at the credit card options provided on the upper portion of this page or consider the options on the following pages:
Sign-Up Bonus Credit Cards
Qantas Frequent Flyer Credit Cards
I hope this has helped.
Cheers,
Ally